La Piazza

- 5803 W Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301

Arizona diners looking for an authentic, time-honored taste of Italy must prioritize a visit to La Piazza in Glendale. Nestled in the heart of Historic Downtown, La Piazza is not just a local restaurant; it is a respected culinary institution, having served the Valley for nearly two decades. This establishment specializes in genuine Neapolitan and Roman-style pizzas, using a traditional wood-fired brick oven imported directly from Italy.

What truly sets La Piazza apart and draws food enthusiasts from across Arizona is its prestigious certification from the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (VPN), the international non-profit organization that upholds the strict standards for authentic Neapolitan pizza worldwide. This certification is a badge of honor, guaranteeing that everything from the Double "00" Flour and San Marzano Tomatoes to the house-made mozzarella is prepared using time-honored techniques, resulting in the perfect char, texture, and flavor profile that defines true Neapolitan excellence.

Beyond the phenomenal food, the restaurant’s cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere provides a welcoming backdrop for a memorable meal. With fun décor, including artwork referencing the "Pizza fit for a Queen" and pictures of celebrity chef Guy Fieri—a nod to the restaurant's multiple features on the Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives"—patrons immediately sense they are in a unique and cherished local spot.

A Crucial Update for Arizona Patrons: After 18 successful years, La Piazza has announced that the restaurant will be closing its doors in July 2025 as its current lease expires. This makes every remaining opportunity to dine here a must for anyone in the region who appreciates authentic Italian cuisine and wishes to celebrate this community staple one last time.

La Piazza is conveniently situated at 5803 W Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301, USA. This prime location in Historic Downtown Glendale makes it a central and easily recognizable spot for both local Glendale residents and visitors traveling from Phoenix and the broader Valley.

Accessibility has been thoughtfully considered for all guests, ensuring a comfortable experience from arrival to departure.

• Wheelchair accessible entrance for easy access.
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot, providing dedicated spots close to the venue.
• Wheelchair accessible seating options within the dining room.

For patrons driving to the restaurant, parking is convenient with both a free on-site parking lot and free street parking available nearby. The restaurant’s address is easy to navigate to, making it a stress-free choice for dinner or a special occasion.

The dedication to customer satisfaction at La Piazza extends across several key services, designed to make enjoying their authentic Italian offerings as convenient as possible.

• Dinner Service: Offers full table service for dinner in a family-friendly environment, perfect for a cozy night out or a gathering with friends.
• Reservations Accepted: Guests are encouraged to utilize their reservation service to secure seating, especially given the restaurant's popularity and current demand ahead of its closure.
• Off-Premise Dining: Provides both Takeout and Delivery options, allowing customers across the area to enjoy their certified pizzas and Italian specialties at home.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts modern electronic payments, including Credit Cards and Debit Cards, for seamless transactions.
• Beverage Menu: The selection includes a variety of Craft beers, specialty Cocktails like the Negroni ($11.00) and Amore ($11.00), and an impressive Wine List featuring Red Wine, White Wine, and a select Reserve List, such as the Reversante Barolo D.O.C.G.
• Family-Oriented Amenities: The venue is recognized as Good for Kids, making it an excellent choice for a family dinner.

The unique attributes of La Piazza that have made it a Valley staple are centered around its authentic techniques, quality ingredients, and wide-ranging menu depth.

• Certified Neapolitan Pizza Excellence: The establishment holds the prestigious VPN (Verace Pizza Napoletana) certification, signifying that its Neapolitan pizzas, like the Regina Margherita D.O.C. and Marinara D.O.C. ($13.00), are crafted according to the centuries-old standards of Naples.
• Dual Pizza Styles: Uniquely offers both the tender, wood-fired Pizza Napoletana (characterized by a soft, thin center and a slightly charred, chewy "cornicione," or crust) and the crisp, thin-crust Pizza Romana, with options like the massive Gladiator ($36.00) and the Margherita ($28.00).
• The Italian Stallion: A famous specialty pizza that was highlighted on Food Network, loaded with Italian meats and known for its rich, authentic flavor.
• In-House Quality Ingredients: Commitment to freshness includes using authentic San Marzano Tomatoes and, critically, making their mozzarella cheese in-house, which reviewers praise for its superior flavor and silky texture.
• Authentic Antipasti and Panini: The menu extends well beyond pizza, offering classic Italian starters such as Calamari Fritti ($1.00), Polpette ($16.00—meatballs), and Caprese ($13.00), as well as satisfying Panini like the Prosciutto E Mozzarella ($15.00).
• Homemade Desserts: The commitment to tradition continues with the Dolce menu, prominently featuring the Cannoli ($6.25) and Chocolate Cannoli ($6.75), which are praised by customers for being filled on the spot to ensure a non-soggy, authentic texture and taste.
• Featured on 'Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives': Multiple appearances on the Food Network show have cemented its reputation as a must-visit destination for authentic Italian food, bringing both local and national attention to this Glendale gem.

To secure a reservation for dinner or inquire about takeout options before the July 2025 closing date, Arizona patrons can use the contact details below.

Address: 5803 W Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301, USA

Phone: (623) 847-3301

Given the impending closure, making a reservation well in advance is highly recommended to ensure you get a chance to experience their certified pizza and Italian dishes one last time. The staff are known for their detailed knowledge of the menu, and calling is the best way to ask any specific questions about available seating or the closing timeline.

Choosing La Piazza is currently worth it for two compelling reasons: the rarity of its authentic, certified cuisine and the limited window of opportunity to enjoy it. This is not your average pizza parlor; it is one of the few VPN-certified establishments in Arizona, a distinction that food lovers understand translates directly into unparalleled quality and tradition. The careful selection of imported ingredients, the use of a genuine Neapolitan wood-fired oven, and the expert technique elevate every dish.

Patrons should prioritize dishes that showcase their mastery, particularly the Regina Margherita D.O.C. or the famous Italian Stallion, which epitomize the perfect balance of fresh, high-quality ingredients and a flawlessly charred crust. Their house-made mozzarella and their perfectly crispy cannoli are also non-negotiable must-try items.

For Arizona locals, a visit to La Piazza is more than just a meal; it is an important opportunity to support a family-owned business that has been a community staple for 18 years, before it closes permanently in July 2025 due to non-renewal of its lease. It represents the last chance to taste one of the Valley's most highly acclaimed, authentic Italian restaurants, celebrated by locals and celebrity chefs alike. Do not miss the opportunity to experience this unique slice of Italian culinary history right here in Glendale before it becomes a cherished memory.

La Piazza

5803 W Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301, USA